Ok so let me start off by saying I’m a total jersey nerd. I have to believe that one of the big reasons I got into hockey as a little two year old lad was the awesome, bright, crazy unis of the 1990’s. That love has followed me into adulthood, and I have built up a mighty fine collection over the years of some beautiful jerseys (and some pretty ugly ones too).

One of my biggest gripes with the current state of the game today is how many teams have absolutely shocking uniform designs and decisions. I would assume these franchises are paying for top-quality business consultation and design people, yet we continue to see insane decisions like the Flames and Capitals just made recently when Adidas took over, to ditch the beautiful retro looks they had, and go with plain, pipe-y, pyjama-looking trash, while 99.9% our jaws dropped at how such a decision could be made. Is there some ugly-jersey conspiracy that we’re all totally oblivious to?

But alas, we don’t have any say in which jerseys our teams will don. But it won’t stop us from dreaming! So I decided to do a series on the best jerseys that each franchise has worn. You may agree with some, you may think I’m crazy. Either way, let me know by tweeting me at @BLTJay!

I will start by reminding everyone that past cities/teams do not count for this project, so therefore the Quebec Nordiques jerseys do not qualify.

Not that I think it matters. This classic kit is one of the best looks of the 90’s in my opinion.

Look at how studly Burnaby Joe looks here. Damn, Joe. Why so serious?

As I’ve mentioned before, I love when teams can pull a unique look that no one else can. In this case you have the mountainous stripes that fit oh so well with the logo. Get it? Mountain peaks – Avalanche? Yeah that’s fucking cool. And just different enough before it gets lame or tacky. I’m so glad they brought the peaks back when Adidas took over.

I got stuck between the white and the burgundy version of this one, but because of the 2001 cup and the iconic moment with Ray Bourque, when I think Avalanche, I think of the home version.

I also have to give very high honourable mention to the two alternates that the Avs have had in the last few years. They are some of the best alternate looks in the past decade at least. Good job Avs.

So what do you think… Which Avs jersey is the best? Do you prefer the classic look that they broke into the league with? Do you like the Stadium Series look better? Let me know in the comments, or tweet me at @BLTJay!